371. Time limits for special hearing

371. Time limits for special hearing

(1) If a special hearing is to be held, it must be held—

(a) within 3 months after the day on which the accused is committed for trial; and

(b) before the court at which the indictment is filed.

Note

Section 212 imposes time limits for commencing trials for sexual offences.

(2) The court may extend the time for holding a special hearing if, because of the existence of exceptional circumstances, the court considers that it is in the interests of justice to do so.

(3) The court may extend time under subsection (2) before or after the time expires.

(4) More than one extension of time may be granted under subsection (2).